As daylight broke, men from all over the country came to the hall. They
were happy to see the tracks Grendel left behind as he fled to his den. The
swamp was filled with his blood. As he neared death, he dove into the water
and drowned himself, sending his soul to hell. Throughout the land, people
repeated the story of Beowulf’s strength and bravery. Although people stayed
loyal to their good king Hrothgar, it was said that no man deserved to rule
more than the glorious Beowulf. Hrothgar’s minstrel came up with a new song,
one praising Beowulf’s triumph. He combined the story of Beowulf’s deeds
with those of the mythic hero Sigmund and his offspring, Fitela. Those two
heroes of long ago killed many giants and other monsters. The minstrel told
of how Sigmund killed a dragon all by himself and took the dragon’s
treasure. Like Beowulf, Sigmund was considered a great hero and his name was
known throughout the land. Sigmund’s fortunes grew after his king, Heremod,
was overthrown and killed. Heremod did not protect his people like Beowulf
had. So all of the noble clansmen, including the great king himself and his
queen, rode to the great hall to witness Beowulf’s great deed.